In a joint partnership between Air Canada and the GTAA, a pilot project is underway aimed at speeding up check-in for passengers on the run at Terminal 1. The self service baggage tagging system is a quick and convenient way for domestic customers to check-in at an electronic kiosk as opposed to waiting in line.

At the kiosks along Aisle D, passengers have the option of entering their booking reference, Aeroplan number, Star Alliance number, or passport number in order to retrieve their reservation. Alternatively, they can scan their itinerary receipt or boarding pass as a recognition method.

Customers are then prompted to follow the on-screen directions and print their baggage tags, receipt and boarding pass. Once the tags have been attached, the customer then takes his or her baggage to the baggage drop-off area where the baggage is weighed to ensure that it meets Air Canada’s weight restrictions. When completed, the passenger can then proceed to their gate.

Based on early feedback received from customers and through internal observations, the self service tagging option is being well received by all participants. Passengers Daniel and Temie Fry had the opportunity to try out the new service. With the help of Air Canada Agent Kim Roberts, they found the new system easy, quick and convenient. “We were surprised to see the kiosk, but now that we know, we will certainly use it. It is so much more convenient than standing in line, we saved so much time that we don’t know what to do with it.”

The pilot project is scheduled to run until November 30, 2007, at which time the results will be assessed and a decision will be made as to whether or not to continue with the project.